Health First associates donate more than $51,000 for Haiti earthquake relief efforts

Individual employees pitch in donations together

ROCKLEDGE, FL - Showing overwhelming compassion and generosity, Health First associates have come together to help those suffering from the earthquake in Haiti. During a special ceremony on March 17, a check totaling $51,557.12 was presented for use by the Mid-Florida Region of the American Red Cross in Brevard County by Health First Vice President of Human Resources Bob Suttles and Buteau Manuel, a 17-year Health First associate with family members in Haiti who were affected by the quake.

In response to employees who wanted to do something for the Haitian earthquake victims, Health First put a program in place so associates could donate a portion of their compensation to a Haiti relief fund. Donations were collected from individual associates contributing the cash value of personal leave time to assist Haitian victims.

"The overwhelming generosity shown by our associates is an extension of that they do every day," Bob Suttles said. "They are in the business of helping people, regardless of whether those people walk in our doors or are across the ocean. Their compassion makes me proud to work with them every day."

Buteau Manuel noted, "It will take years for my family, friends, and the entire Haiti community to put their lives back together following this disaster. I am so happy to be working at a company like Health First where our employees are so compassionate and want to help those in need."

The American Red Cross was chosen as the recipient of the donations because of that organization's ability to effectively provide the assistance most desperately needed. Accepting the donation on behalf of the American Red Cross was Joel Haas, CEO of the Mid-Florida Region.